Neighbor urges update on vacant site as Ward 5 residents cite food-desert concerns

Sandy Lloyd, of 19 Third Place, told the council the building discussed at a November Ward meeting remains empty and that Ward 5 residents are concerned about access to groceries. Lloyd said the closest food stores are PNC, Aldi and the Grand Union and asked the mayor or a council member for an update on the status of securing a tenant who would sell food and clothing.

The council acknowledged the comment and the Chair said staff are working on local projects including talks with potential grocery operators and grant opportunities to address food access; details and timelines were not specified at the meeting.